Greater Dandenong Council News February 2022

FEBRUARY 2022

Greater Dandenong Council News Frederick Wachter Reserve Upgrade PAGE 6

Australia Day Awards

What’s On Calendar

Love Your Local

► PAGE 3

► PAGES 10–11

► PAGE 14

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Council News

Customer Service Centres Dandenong Civic Centre 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Springvale Community Hub 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale Keysborough Customer Service Shop A7 Parkmore Shopping Centre, Keysborough All correspondence to: Greater Dandenong Council News PO Box 200 Dandenong VIC 3175 Email: news@cgd.vic.gov.au Phone: 8571 1000 Fax: 8571 5196 www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au

Mayor ’s message Welcome to the February 2022 edition of Greater Dandenong Council News.

I hope you are enjoying a great start to the year this summer with your family and friends.

We are supporting our traders and doing all we can to rejuvenate our great municipality by hosting a variety of engaging festivals, events, activities and programs. Don’t miss the return of our popular What’s On calendar this month on pages 10–11 where there are lots of family-friendly, free and COVID safe events to enjoy.

Improvements around our municipality continue and we would love to hear your thoughts on what we have planned, so be sure to have your say via our website.

We’d like to congratulate our Australia Day Award winners, see page 3; and turn to page 6 to see how the Springvale Boulevard is coming along and upgrades to Frederick Wachter Reserve in Keysborough.

@greaterdandy

Valentine’s Day is on 14 February so enjoy reading about how you can share the love by shopping local on page 14.

facebook.com/greaterdandenong

Enjoy reading all our great city has to offer this month. Stay safe and remain kind to one another.

cityofgreaterdandenong youtube.com/citygreaterdandenong TTY: 133 677 Speak and listen: 1300 555 727 relayservice.gov.au

Mayor Cr Jim Memeti

TIS: 131 450

My City

council@cgd.vic.gov.au

We reflected on all we had achieved and endured in 2021 and welcomed the new year with family-friendly fireworks at Dandenong Park on New Year’s Eve. It was wonderful to see our community celebrating and enjoying our roving performers and musical entertainment. I hope 2022 has started off well for you and your family.

Important Numbers Emergency calls Police / Fire / Ambulance................................... 000 Street lighting faults / non-operational United Energy............................................13 20 99 Traffic signal faults / non-operational................................... 8571 1000 Hoon Hotline................................. 1800 333 000 Hard Waste Collection WM Waste Management Services.................................................... 9721 1915 Australian Animal Protection Society.............................. 9798 8415 RSPCA....................................................... 9224 2222 Nurse on Call................................ 1300 606 024 Information in this publication is correct at the time of printing and is subject to change. For updates please visit our website and social media platforms.

Photographer: Nydane Reth

Acknowledgement We acknowledge the traditional owners and custodians of this land, the Bunurong People, and pay respect to their Elders past, present and emerging. We recognise and respect their continuing connections to Climate, Culture and Country.

Front Cover: Ducks at Frederick Wachter Reserve, Keysborough.

This publication is available in alternative formats upon request.

Council News

Greater Dandenong Winners Citizen of the Year – Amanda Meehan Amanda Meehan selflessly helps children and families in countless ways via Surrogacy Australia, both as a surrogate and an advocate. She has devoted much of her time to giving back to her community with her involvement at the Darren Reserve Kindergarten and the Keysborough Cricket Club.

Young Leader of the Year – Alice Ho Alice Ho voluntarily performs leadership, support and advocacy roles for a number of local and national community groups, particularly focusing on the health and wellbeing of young people.

She has also volunteered her time to help those in need during COVID delivering food and other necessary items, all while continuing her studies and working her many jobs.

Volunteer of the Year – Korb Sao Korb Sao is a well-respected and innovative community leader and provides important health information to the Cambodian Diaspora throughout the municipality and beyond through his work with SK Media. He is also an active volunteer and contributor to many local charities.

Community Group of the Year – South East Community Links South East Community Links (SECL) has been providing practical and tangible support to new arrivals and those in need in our community for over 50 years, serving clients with respect and dignity.

Services include emergency relief, settlement services, housing, youth services, financial counselling, no interest loans, partnering with CALD community groups and offering support to families in crisis or subject to domestic violence.

Sustainability Award – Ian Kitchen Ian Kitchen has been the president of the Greater Dandenong Environmental Group for 25 years and in that time has continuously advocated for the preservation and restoration of our natural environment.

Sportsperson of the Year (joint winners) Chantel Brown Chantel Brown at just 14 years old has advocated for junior football and increased female participation in her local sporting community. She is an outstanding sportsperson who encourages her teammates and opposition, both on and off the field, to take the initiative to connect with children in the community.

Knowles Tivendale Knowles Tivendale initiated the Dandenong Park Parkrun group in 2019–20 and has tirelessly worked to keep it going throughout the COVID pandemic when restrictions allowed.

He was also an integral part of the inaugural Australia Day Make Your Move Fun Run at the beginning of 2021.

Corporate Citizen of the Year – James Sturgess James Sturgess has been an advocate for the Dandenong area for more than two decades. He has been a key stakeholder in the revitalisation of Dandenong, with his goal to look out for the wellbeing and economic health of the community, both for residents and businesses, and particularly for those in need.

Living Treasures (joint winners) Natalie Irvine Natalie Irvine has volunteered at Palliative Care South East (PCSE) for 18 years and has supported over 25 clients with a life-limiting illness as a companion volunteer. She has also provided support in PCSE’s bereavement program by assisting with the memorial services, singing in the choir, reading poems or verses, taking registrations and providing support to those in need.

Patricia Ockwell Patricia Ockwell is a proud Wurundjeri Elder who has served her community through her work in hostels, housing and the justice system. Now in her 80s, Pat’s passion and commitment for her community is undiminished and she continues to work tirelessly for fairness, integrity and reconciliation.

Joe Rechichi Joe Rechichi is a devoted volunteer with the Springvale Benevolent Society, as he does not want struggling families to go without a meal, having known what it was like himself. Joe has also been the Public Officer for the Springvale Italian Senior Citizens Club for over 30 years. Prior to the COVID pandemic, he attended seminars on health and community issues to relay ‘information’ to the elderly citizens.

Corporate Citizen of the Year Special Commendation – Byron of Byron’s Convenience Store

www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au

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Council News

Councillor ContactsAY THU RSD

Dandenong Ward – Mayor Cr Jim Memeti FEBRUARY 0434 560 239 jim.memeti@cgd.vic.gov.au

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NOVEMBER

Yarraman Ward – Deputy Mayor Cr Eden Foster 0435 202 645 eden.foster@cgd.vic.gov.au Cleeland Ward Cr Angela Long Ph/Fax: 9795 6574 0466 004 616 angela.long@cgd.vic.gov.au

Dandenong North Ward Cr Bob Milkovic 0435 237 051 bob.milkovic@cgd.vic.gov.au

Keysborough Ward Cr Tim Dark 0466 403 914 tim.dark@cgd.vic.gov.au

MONDAY

MONDAY

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FEBRUARY

FEBRUARY

Council Meetings Council meetings are usually held in the Council chambers of the Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong, commencing at 7pm, or online during COVID restrictions.

Upcoming meetings will be held on: ► Monday 14 February 2022 ► Monday 28 February 2022.

You can ask questions during Public Question Time. You can also watch our Council meetings live via our webcast service.

TH URSDAY

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FEBRUARY NOVEMBER

Connect with us to learn about community consultation opportunities and the latest decisions made. Hear questions from our residents and find out the many ways your Councillors are serving the community.

To check the agenda and to view meetings online or to find out more about Public Question Time visit greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ council-meetings

Emergency relief for those in need

Keysborough South Ward Cr Rhonda Garad 0435 107 584 rhonda.garad@cgd.vic.gov.au

Noble Park Ward Cr Sophie Tan 0466 793 727 sophie.tan@cgd.vic.gov.au

Noble Park North Ward Cr Lana Formoso 0435 530 536 lana.formoso@cgd.vic.gov.au

Springvale Central Ward Cr Richard Lim OAM 0435 627 164 richard.lim@cgd.vic.gov.au

Springvale North Ward Cr Sean O’Reilly 0422 523 258 sean.oreilly@cgd.vic.gov.au

Springvale South Ward Cr Loi Truong 0466 004 618 loi.truong@cgd.vic.gov.au

www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au

Greater Dandenong City Council’s Emergency Management team and their volunteers have been working tirelessly seven days a week over many months to provide residents isolating due to COVID with emergency food relief packages.

Boxes packed with pantry staples and fresh fruit and vegetables are delivered free of charge to support those who have received a positive COVID test result or who are deemed a close contact and are financially disadvantaged or have no support network.

Families can also be provided with over the counter pain relief medication, baby formula and nappies.

Volunteers, including Council staff, have visited over 416 households across the municipality since August 2021.

If you are in urgent need of supplies and don’t have a support network who can help you, please contact the Victorian Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398, and select Option 4, translation services are also available.

Council News

Cr Lana Formoso As a lifelong resident of Greater Dandenong, I have been passionate about improving the quality of our city, long before even joining Council.

In the last 12 months, I have made 150 customer service reports to Council to seek improvements for our residents.

This year we look to positive change and forward thinking, after what has been an incredibly challenging couple of years with the COVID pandemic.

It’s time to bring health and wellbeing to the forefront and foster healthy living habits by getting active. Council’s Make Your Move strategy aims to increase community sport participation in our municipality, as we are currently ranked the lowest in Victoria. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is also 36 per cent

higher in our city compared to the Victorian average of nine per cent.

So, it is essential that we provide encouragement and spaces for our residents to start leading more active lifestyles.

As a Councillor representative on the South East Leisure Board, I am looking forward to working with the team on the development of the new Dandenong Aquatic and Wellbeing Centre. The centre will replace the existing Dandenong Oasis to create an innovative health and education precinct for the south east.

In the Noble Park North ward, planning is underway to upgrade Barry J Powell Reserve with a masterplan being drafted based on community feedback. More exciting developments will unfold in the area as the year progresses.

Cr Loi Truong With summer winding down, I encourage our residents to venture outside and enjoy the wonderful parks and recreational facilities across our city.

Burden Park in Springvale South continues to be redeveloped as we upgrade the existing six tennis courts to ensure compliance with Tennis Australia standards.

The Springvale Community Hub has also come alive since the easing of COVID restrictions. The Hub is successfully hosting outdoor movie screenings, clothing and toy swaps and a range of fun, free activities.

► Noble Park North Ward

If you want to get in touch with me email lana.formoso@ cgd.vic.gov.au or phone me on 0435 530 536

► Springvale South Ward The Springvale Library has also welcomed many new visitors who are making the most of their free membership by accessing a wide range of innovative, interactive resources.

New traffic lights will be installed at the Harold Road and Corrigan Road intersection. This will also support improved traffic flow on to Springvale Road.

To remain open, it is important to keep COVID safe, so please stay home if you are unwell and ensure you keep getting tested if you experience any COVID-like symptoms.

I trust 2022 has started off well for you and your family. I wish you all a very happy and safe Lunar New Year too.

You can reach me at loi.truong@cgd.vic.gov.au or contact me on 0466 004 618.

Have your say We value the ideas and opinions of our community and want you to be a part of the planning and decision-making process. Our services are enhanced when you tell us what you think and what you need.

Council regularly seeks community feedback on a range of projects and plans via online consultations, surveys, workshops, focus groups and advisory committees.

Visit greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/have-your-say for more information on how to have your voice heard.

www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au

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Council News

Working for You

Improvements to Frederick Wachter Reserve

Springvale Boulevard update

SOME BIG CHANGES

The Springvale Boulevard project is still underway, with footpath and road upgrades on Springvale Road between Balmoral Avenue and Windsor Avenue.

Springvale’s community and visitors will soon have an improved pedestrian experience with new paving and lighting to enhance local safety.

Frederick Wachter Reserve on Kingsclere Avenue in Keysborough will see some major improvements over the coming year, with stage 1 of the new playground to begin and further landscape improvements to the wetland area to occur.

During construction some parking bays along Springvale Road will be temporarily unavailable and will be reinstated when safe to do so. In the meantime, parking will be available at ‘Number 8’ Balmoral multi-deck car park and the Warwick Avenue car parks.

The reserve’s wetland is home to many wonderful bird species and has been host to a brood of ducklings since late 2021.

Over the coming months, the wetland will see the construction of a boardwalk and 22,000 trees and plants planted to increase the tree canopy coverage across the park and enhance the habitat for native wildlife.

Located near the existing playground at the southern end of the park, the new playground will provide a diverse environment with a range of play equipment suitable for all age groups to enjoy.

The new playground is based on a market garden and wetland theme and will include a hexagon swing with five swings, a giant basket swing, an accessible spinner, a junior play area with monkey bars and cubby play, and two in-ground trampolines.

www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au

Other new additions to the playground will include shade sails, picnic tables and seating areas, accessible paths, landscaping and a grassy mound with shade trees to create a more inviting space for socialising and enjoying the outdoors with family and friends.

The existing playground will be retained until future stages of the new playground are funded.

For more information visit greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ frederick-wachter-reserveplayground-upgrade

While works progress in the area, it is more important than ever to support traders who line the Springvale Boulevard. Stores are still open during normal trading hours.

Council thanks traders for their understanding during this period of construction and the community for continuing to shop locally despite disruptions.

Please contact the MACA Infrastructure team on 1300 348 040 or 8373 4040 for more information on construction works.

For any general enquiries about the project, please email SpringvaleBoulevard@ cgd.vic.gov.au

Council News

Do you have a little one in nappies?

Please complete this survey survey.zohopublic.com.au/zs/ iwBtuF or scan this QR code to let us know how you decide which nappy to use for your child.

Scan this QR code Your input will support research on a reusable nappy program that aims to reduce household waste that ends up in landfill.

With your help, we can gain valuable insights into how Council can better support residents to make environmentallyfriendly choices.

If you would like to provide more information, you can also take part in an interview with the project team, contact Council’s Waste team on 8571 1000.

This project is supported by the Recycling Victoria Councils Fund, delivered by Sustainability Victoria on behalf of the Victorian Government.

Declutter your home Now the festive season is over, it is a great opportunity to declutter your home and give your larger and smaller unwanted household items a new lease on life to help reduce landfill.

Saturday 26 February – Reuse and Recycle Drop Off Day Drop off your larger unwanted electronic and household goods, i.e. TVs and computers, appliances, whitegoods, furniture, mattresses and bicycles, at a free collection service at Greaves Reserve, 2–20 Bennet Street, Dandenong, from 8am–1pm on Saturday 26 February.

The Reuse and Recycle Drop Off Day will ensure larger unwanted items in good condition do not end up in landfill. The last event held in November resulted in 20,000kgs of items being either recycled, or recovered by charity groups.

Mayor, Cr Jim Memeti said: “In 2021, residents saved over 70,000kgs of material from landfill via a range of reuse and recycling Council events and community programs.”

Residents who take part in the drop off day can bring up to 15 items by car or trailer.

Tuesday 8–Saturday 19 March – Homecycle Reduce landfill with this free one-off kerbside collection and recycle your smaller unwanted goods that are too good to throw out.

Homecycle provides residents with a convenient way to recycle or donate smaller unwanted items such as clothes, linen, homewares, toys, games, sports equipment and small electrical items.

Residents can conveniently place these items into their kerbside yellow lid recycling bin the day after the normal recycling collection day. The items will be collected and passed on to charities.

For more information visit greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ homecycle

All COVID safe guidelines will be followed to ensure public safety.

Residents are to remain in their vehicles during the drop off process.

For more information visit greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ recycle-day

www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au

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Council News

Encouraging active families This month, the Active Families six-week physical and wellness program begins in four local primary schools across our city at St Anthony’s Primary School, Dandenong West Primary School, Rosewood Downs Primary School and Woorana Park Primary School.

Facilitated by the Bluearth Foundation, the program aims to increase physical literacy in our migrant and refugee families, while encouraging children to have fun, build social connections, learn resilience and empathy, develop new skills, and ultimately inspire a commitment for children to lead a healthy and active life.

Rosewood Downs Primary School Principal, Julian Growcott, hopes the Active Families program will help build a return to more healthy habits after lockdowns and help families grow their own connections to the school and wider community.

“As with many Greater Dandenong schools, we have a diverse and multicultural school community.

Greater Dandenong’s educational history on show A free exhibition Reading, Writing and Arithmetic: Early Education in the City of Greater Dandenong is on display at Laurel Lodge, Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, until 1 March and delves into the beginnings of education in our local area from the 1800s up until the present day.

Open from Tuesday to Friday, 10am – 4pm, the exhibition features Laurel Lodge as a private college and the history of State Schools no. 1403 (Dandenong) and 1466 (Keysborough), as well as one of Dandenong’s most famous students, Oscar Asche.

www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au

Buy or borrow our 25th anniversary book A book outlining the 25-year history of Greater Dandenong, written by Martin Curtis, has been released and is now available to purchase and borrow from Springvale and Dandenong Libraries.

Rosewood Downs Primary School Principal Julian Growcott

Sometimes, it is hard for families within our community to engage with sports, health and fitness opportunities due to language, cultural, geographical or simply practical reasons. A health and fitness program that is accessible and familiar to our multicultural families will certainly help to remove some of these barriers to participation.

“Perhaps the best outcome I would like to see from this program will be to improve the health, fitness and general wellbeing of our families.

This will not just be through exercise, which is critically important for all of us, but through building social connections through participation in sports and games. This program will help children participate and engage more positively with the school,” Julian said.

During the mid-19th century, children did not have to attend school, and if they did, their parents could withdraw them at any time, for any reason.

Education was a luxury that poorer families could not afford.

City of Opportunity – The Making of the City of Greater Dandenong was commissioned by Council and recommended by the Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee to reflect on the city’s most defining moments since the amalgamations of Springvale and Dandenong Councils in 1994.

Proceeds from book sales will be distributed to Dandenong and District and Springvale and District Historical Societies to support their ongoing work to capture our municipality’s history.

To purchase your copy contact the Cultural Heritage team at cgdlibraries@cgd.vic.gov.au or 1300 630 920.

State School 1403, Dan denong, c1920.

Supplied by State Library of Victoria.

Schools were often only one room, with children of all ages taught together by repetition. Punishment was a common occurrence, with the cane being used on both boys and girls.

The arrival of the Education Act 1872 (Victoria) brought in free education and mandated all children from 6-15 years to attend school. The Act stated that children were to be educated in reading, writing, arithmetic, grammar, geography and drill. Girls were also taught sewing and needlework.

Victoria was the first colony in Australia, and one of the first in the world, to introduce free compulsory and secular education for children.

For further information email culturalheritage@cgd.vic. gov.au or call 8571 1000.

Council News Our Youth Leaders with

Councillors

Immunisation sessions – February 2022 Immunisation sessions are held every month for residents in a COVID safe environment.

Calling all youth Would you like to give back to your community and interact with likeminded youth? Then register to join one of our Youth and Family Services’ amazing programs tailored to all interests and learning styles.

FReeZA Youth Committee The FReeZA Youth Committee welcomes people aged 12–25 years to join their weekly Thursday program from 4.30pm– 6.30pm during the school term. The committee plans and delivers local youth events and festivals with training and workshops provided for young people to build their skills in event and stage management (including design, sound tech, MC, etc.). FReeZA is a Victorian Government initiative.

Holiday Activities Committee The Holiday Activities Committee is tailored to people aged 12–16 years and introduces participants to foundational leadership, communication and teamwork skills. Participants then consolidate their learnings and

Swapping for sustainability Wanting to shop more consciously? Then attend the Springvale Community Hub clothes and toys swap events this year.

Shoppers can rest assured that all items are inspected by volunteers to make sure only quality items make it to the racks and tables for swapping.

Clothes and toys swap event coordinator Zoë Mohl said she was determined to make the event a permanent fixture in the community after attending a clothing swap meet at Council’s Forever Fest event in 2021.

newfound skills to peer lead youth activities during the school holidays.

The program is delivered on Monday afternoons from 4.30pm–6.30pm during the school term.

IntroSwim The IntroSwim program provides people aged 16–25 years with the opportunity to learn basic swimming and water safety skills. The IntroSwim program begins on 7 February.

Young Leaders Make a positive impact by planning and delivering community projects and developing leadership skills when you join the 16-week Young Leaders program. Commencing on 26 April, the weekly program runs on Tuesday afternoons for two hours for youth aged 16–25 years.

Register at youth.greater dandenong.vic.gov.au/ programs/ or contact Youth and Family Services on 9793 2155 for further information.

“The free clothing swap event is more than just a place to trade items amongst community members. It’s about making meaningful connections with neighbours, including the kids who have a blast coming together to play while parents browse the racks.

“I hope it will encourage our community to consider other ways they could be living a bit cleaner and greener too.

Swapping clothes is just the beginning,” Ms Mohl said.

Proof of a COVID vaccination or exemption will be required upon entry to the Springvale Community Hub.

The sessions are free and provide important vaccinations to prevent diseases such as Whooping Cough, Hepatitis, Tetanus, Pneumococcal Pneumonia, Measles and Meningococcal disease. Influenza vaccination is also recommended and available for all children from six months to five years of age.

Bookings are required for your child’s immunisations.

Date

Location

Thursday 3 February

Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street (enter via Harmony Square, Dandenong)

Thursday Jan Wilson Community 10 February Centre, BJ Powell Reserve, Halton Road, Noble Park North Wednesday Springvale City Hall, 16 February Supper Room, 18 Grace Park Avenue, Springvale Tuesday Paddy O’Donoghue 22 February Centre,18-34 Buckley Street, Noble Park Saturday Dandenong Civic 26 February Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street (enter via Harmony Square, Dandenong) Monday Springvale City Hall, 28 February Supper Room, 18 Grace Park Avenue, Springvale To make an appointment visit greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ immunisation. If you need further assistance, please phone Council on 8571 1000.

Upcoming clothes and toys swap dates: ► Saturday 19 February ► Saturday 19 March ► Saturday 9 April (Sustainability Festival).

www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au

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Community Calendar

What’s On February 2022 MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

ubject to COVID restrictions, the following events and S opportunities are scheduled for February. Please check our website and social media for updates, as event dates may change or be offered virtually.

► Toddler

Time Dandenong and Springvale Libraries 10.30am

7 Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre

THURSDAY

2

► WORLD

WETLANDS DAY

3

► Storytime

Dandenong and Springvale Libraries 10.30am

9

► Baby

Bounce Dandenong Library 10.30am

81 10

► Storytime

Dandenong and Springvale Libraries 10.30am

► Wedding

Singer Drum Theatre 7.30pm

14

► Toddler

Time Dandenong and Springvale Libraries 10.30am

►

16 aby Bounce B Dandenong Library 10.30am

► Gone

with the Wind Drum Theatre 10.30am

► Storytime

► Council

Meeting Dandenong Civic Centre 225 Lonsdale Street 7pm

Dandenong and Springvale Libraries 10.30am

ary Opening 10 Febru

► World

Fare Night Market Dandenong Market 4.30pm– 9pm

Priyanka Kaur & Avneet Singh, Dancing Rani, acrylics and ink, 2021.

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21

22

► Toddler Time Dandenong and Springvale Libraries 10.30am

23

► Baby

Bounce Dandenong Library 10.30am

► SEBN

Charity Golf Day Victoria Golf Course 11.30am–7.30pm

24

► Storytime

Dandenong and Springvale Libraries 10.30am

► The

DandEreaders online book club 2pm

► Young

Toddler Time

Baby Bounce 28

► Council

Meeting Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street 7pm

Until 1 March

Save the Date

► Reading,

► Saturday

Laurel Lodge, Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens Tuesday– Friday, 10am– 4pm

Visit greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au for more details

Writing and Arithmetic: Early Education in the City of Greater Dandenong exhibition

www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au

5 March Community Celebration Springvale Community Hub 4pm –7pm

People Leading Healthier Communities workshop Springvale Library 4.30pm– 6.30pm

► World

Fare Night Market Dandenong Market 4.30pm– 9pm

Every Thursday ► Libraries

After Dark Dandenong and Springvale Libraries 7.30pm every Thursday

Council News

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

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5

► BIG

Summer Read Finale Dandenong Library 2pm

11

► Baby

Bounce Springvale Library 10.30am

Contact:

SUNDAY

6

► StoryWalk

Springvale Community Hub 5pm

Drum Theatre Ph: 8571 1666

81 12

► Open

Air Movies Launch Up Springvale Community Hub 4pm

► Wedding

Singer Drum Theatre 7.30pm

Dandenong Library Ph: 1300 630 920

► Think

Tank – Digging Dinosaurs Dandenong Library 3pm – 4pm Singer Drum Theatre 2pm and 7.30pm

Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens Ph: 9793 4511

► Wedding

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► Baby

Bounce Springvale Library 10.30am

► Open

Air Movies Fantastic Mr Fox Springvale Community Hub 7pm

Bounce Springvale Library 10.30am

► Open

Air Movies Big Springvale Community Hub 7pm

Wedding Singer 19

► Think

Tank – Digging Dinosaurs Springvale Library 3pm – 4pm

20

► Afghan

Community Welcome Event Harmony Square, Dandenong 11am – 4pm

Jan Wilson Community Centre Ph: 8571 1436 Springvale Library Ph: 1300 630 920

► Clothes

and Toys Swap Springvale Community Hub 1 pm – 3pm

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► Baby

City of Greater Dandenong Ph: 8571 1000

Springers Leisure Centre Ph: 9701 5900 Walker Street Gallery Ph: 9706 8441

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► Reuse

and Recycle Drop Off Day Greaves Reserve 2–20 Bennet Street, Dandenong 8am – 1pm

Drum Theatre We are thrilled to welcome you back to the beautiful Drum Theatre for Season 2022.

Reconnect with friends and family to share in the stories, music and laughter that can be found at our exceptional events. This season experience a fabulous range of live performances from national touring companies to homegrown ensembles. We appreciate your continued support of the Drum and the local arts industry.

Dandenong Market Ph: 9701 3850 Cultural Tours Ph: 8571 1666 To submit your event for our website and Council news visit: greater dandenong.vic.gov.au/ promote-your-event

Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre to officially open on 10 February at 12pm

► Thursday

10 February– Friday 25 March JALSA: Celebration of South Asian women artists exhibition Walker Street Gallery and Art Centre – Gallery One Tuesday– Friday, 12pm to 4pm

L ineage and Line exhibition Walker Street Gallery and Art Centre – Gallery Two Tuesday– Friday, 12pm to 4pm Visit greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ arts

COVID safe guidelines will be fully met to ensure public safety for all Council events.

www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au

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Pet registrations due in April

Did you know you can register your pet online?

Pet registrations are due by 10 April annually and can be done so via the “renew your pet registration” menu on our website.

You can also nominate to receive an eNotice so your annual renewal notice is emailed straight to your nominated inbox rather than receiving a letter in the mail.

If your pet is lost and gets taken to a local vet practice, pound or shelter, legislation prohibits it being reunited with the owner unless the Council registration is current.

Pet registration is not the same as microchip identification.

Around 36 per cent of all stray dogs are returned directly to the owner, however unregistered pets and out of date contact information on microchip records unfortunately result in too many stray animals being impounded.

Former Mayor, Cr Angela Long presents a donation to the Kindness Community.

Giving back to the community The Kindness Community and Springvale Benevolent Society both received a $7000 donation from Council due to the cancellation of the annual Mayoral Charity event.

Food parcels are prepared and delivered regularly throughout the community by the Springvale Benevolent Society’s team of volunteers who provide crisis care for those in need.

Former Mayor, Cr Angela Long, said the $14,000 of unspent funds for staging the event was instead given to these two deserving charities.

Cr Long and her husband Barry also donated $600 to the Greater Dandenong State Emergency Service from their own funds. This donation was raised by the sale of scrap aluminium, saving over half a tonne of aluminium waste going to landfill.

The Kindness Community provides a free meal service for disadvantaged people in Greater Dandenong every Tuesday.

Relax in Palm Plaza

If a Council ranger picks up an animal that is currently registered, all efforts are made to locate the owner through microchip records or tags. If the owner can be found the animal will be returned without impounding.

Did you know there are now new tables, benches and umbrellas in Dandenong’s central activity centre?

Failure to register or renew the registration of a pet carries a penalty of over $360, so register your pet to keep them safe.

Palm Plaza is Dandenong’s’ most occupied public space, which is not surprising given its prime location between the shopping centre and Dandenong Market.

Mayor Jim Memeti enjoying the new Palm Plaza furniture.

Synthetic grass cubes also add a playful touch to the space and are movable.

The new comfortable furniture is also surrounded by seasonal floral displays.

The new furniture was selected for its durability and made in Australia. The umbrellas are proudly manufactured in Dandenong.

Visit greaterdandenong.vic. gov.au/pet-registration for more information.

www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au

Free and comfortable places to sit are now available in Palm Plaza so you can connect with others in a relaxing environment.

Council News FREE open air movies return to Springvale Enjoy watching movies under the stars again on weekends from February to April at Springvale Community Hub. The program launches with a special afternoon screening of the popular film Up at 4pm on Saturday 12 February.

Open air movies will then run for free every Friday night at 7pm from 18 February until 8 April at the Hub. A diverse range of movies will be shown over the next few months including classic children’s films, family favourites from the 80s, action, adventure and comedy films, and anime including the much-loved Princess Mononoke.

Special movie screenings will also be presented to celebrate International Women’s Day in March and Greater Dandenong’s Sustainability Festival in April.

Bring along a picnic and your own rug or chair to enjoy the movies outdoors again with friends and family.

All COVID safe guidelines will be followed to ensure public safety.

For more information and to register visit greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ open-air-movies

Council Grants and Funding Council offers a range of one-off and multi-year grant and funding opportunities for community groups and organisations to deliver community projects, services, and events that benefit the Greater Dandenong community.

A Council grant assisted the Cornerstone Connection Centre to deliver a weekly creative writing group for people who experience homelessness, are seeking asylum, or are struggling with addiction and mental health concerns.

Cornerstone CEO, Naomi Paterson said the funds have aided their program to expand so they can support community members in need beyond the scope of their usual clientele.

ONE-OFF GRANTS

“One of our community members came along thinking that we had a breakfast program, not realising that it was the morning of the creative writing program. He joined in, telling us it is not something he would normally think to participate in.

“He found the creative outlet and connection with other community members in such a safe and supportive environment a great encouragement, and led to him feeling supported and much less isolated,” Naomi said.

sponsorship for events and activities are now open and close on Monday 28 February.

Single-year funding of up to $10,000 for one-off projects for community groups and organisations open on Monday 7 February and close on Monday 14 March.

For more guidelines and information on grant rounds and to submit an application visit greaterdandenong.vic.gov. au/grants.

Multi-year funding opportunities for large community service projects and

www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au

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14 Council News

Business

Loving local this Valentine’s Day Valentine’s Day is all about sharing the love! This can be the love you have for your partner, your family, your friends, even the love you have for your community.

This year you don’t have to go far to put a smile on your loved one’s face.

There are plenty of places locally for you to pick up some great gifts, head out for a bite to eat or to enjoy some fun entertainment.

Pick up some sweets for your sweetie Ciro’s Cakes & Biscuits is a family owned and run bakery located in Noble Park. They have everything from dolcini biscuits and continental cakes, with one of their most famous treasures, their cannoli.

Where: 32 Ian Street, Noble Park.

Lunar Drive-in

Can’t go wrong with the classics Flowers on any day of the year will always bring a smile to your loved one’s face, but make it extra special this Valentine’s Day by buying a bouquet (or a single long stemmed rose) from Jenny at Jenny’s Flowers in Market Square, a popular stallholder at the Dandenong Market since the early 1990s.

Where: Market Square, Clow Street and Cleeland Street, Dandenong

Drive in date Take a step back in time to when radios ruled, and mobile phones didn’t exist.

Lunar Drive-in is always a big night on Valentine’s Day. A new release film Marry Me starring Jennifer Lopez and Owen Wilson will screen, along with The Notebook and Valentine’s Day. To top off the night, complimentary chocolates and roses will be given out to each couple.

Bookings can be made at lunardrive-in.com.au or at the ticket box (subject to availability).

Where: 115 South Gippsland Highway, Dandenong

Elena of Ciro’s Cakes & Biscuits

Bling for your beau

Dine in, dine out

Perhaps you’re looking to spoil your special someone with something a little more sparkly. Queen & Collection was founded by Seyhan and Cihan Bektas. Each jewellery piece is designed in Melbourne and carefully handcrafted in Istanbul.

Our wonderful city is packed to the brim with incredible eateries serving up culturally diverse and delicious meals, from a small bite, to a full dinner or just for a quick dessert and coffee. Support your local restaurants this Valentine’s Day and make a booking for lunch or dinner. If you prefer to cosy up at home, there are also many places that offer a takeaway service.

Where: visit queenandcollection. com.au and enquire about collecting your gift from Keysborough

Where: visit greaterdandenong.vic.gov. au/great-bites-open-for-business Jenny of Jenny’s Flowers

www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au

Business

Council News

A local manufacturing powerhouse Did you know that the top selling yoghurt brand in the United States and Australia has a base in Greater Dandenong?

Chobani set up shop in Australia in 2011, securing a warehouse in Dandenong South and began producing yoghurt products just a year later. The company was making 25,000 cases a week when they first started production, today they make more than 50,000 cases a day across all their product ranges.

The company is now constructing a new storage and production site in Dandenong South. The new 21,000 sqm warehouse backs onto Chobani’s existing production site and is due to be completed in May. The expansion will enable Chobani to consolidate all their operations under one roof.

“Manufacturing is vitally important to the Australian economy and Chobani Australia is committed to continuing to adapt and evolve. We look forward

The Chobani team at the new operations site.

to continuing to contribute to the local community, as well as the ongoing safety, security and continuity of Australia’s food supply – and what better place to do that than in Greater Dandenong?” General Manager Operations, Steve Butler said.

Easy as pie!

She appreciates the help she has received from Greater Dandenong Council’s COVID Support Officers who visited the store to assist Cuong with filling out her business’ COVID Safe Plan and provided face-to-face support to improve her accessibility of COVID information.

In just three years, Cuong Thi Pham has put her delectable pies on the map as some of Australia’s best, winning multiple awards at Australia’s Best Pie Competition and the Official Great Aussie Pie Competition.

C

“They helped make it easier to understand,” said Cuong.

Cuong, 47, was born and raised in Vietnam, before spending six years in Auckland, New Zealand where she learnt how to make her award-winning pies.

The COVID Safe Business Kit helped her understand the current requirements and since receiving the kit, Cuong has been able to keep up her ongoing COVID safe practices, including having a screen barrier, floor markings, QR code, signage and face masks.

In 2018 Cuong moved to Melbourne and set up Kiwi Steak & Cheese Pie in Dandenong, specialising in pies, baked goods and Banh Mi. “I recommend people try the business’ name, the Kiwi steak and cheese pie. The creamy chicken and cheese pie is also one of our most popular,” said Cuong.

Many business owners have had a tough run over the last couple of years due to ongoing challenges posed by the COVID pandemic.

Chobani has been providing yoghurt and fresh fruit to students at Dandenong South Primary School since 2013 through the school’s Breakfast Club program. Nationwide, the company also manufactures fresh produce weekly for Australia’s largest food relief organisation, Foodbank.

Cuong was relieved to be able to open her doors to the public once again, who she says have been very cooperative when adopting COVID safe practices.

“To keep safe is our priority and we appreciate that customers are still coming. People always check in and we have a paper check in if they don’t have a mobile phone … we are happy people are doing the right thing,” said Cuong.

Where: Kiwi Steak & Cheese Pie, 242 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong.

Visit facebook.com/kiwisteak andcheesepies/

SEEKING COMMUNITY GOOD NEWS STORIES FOR NEXT EDITION! www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au

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IN FEBRUARY & MARCH 2022 (17, 24 FebRUARY & 3, 10 March)

DANDENONGMARKET.COM.AU

OPEN TUESDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY

CNR CLOW & CLEELAND STREETS, DANDENONG